Solar Angle Optimizer

Abstract

This thesis deals with the subject of a two axis rotatable solar panel rig where the design for the electrical components are proposed and the controller code from previous theses are further developed. The rig is to be used for research by UiT Narvik and the prerequisites for the installation of the rig are designed in this thesis. The electrical components for the rig proposed are an H-bridge, a power measurement circuit board, and a connection matrix. In addition to the electrical components the code for the controller were changed and a bracket for the induction sensors were designed. The H-bridge was designed, tested and the results obtained were satisfactory. The power supply for the H-bridge which in turn supplies power to the motors were found to be inadequate for its intended purpose with a few possible solutions proposed. The power measurement circuit board was designed, tested and the results obtained during testing were good in regards to accuracy and temperature. The connection matrix was designed but not made or tested. The safety of the design was discussed and a few alternatives were brought up. Positions for the inductions sensors were found and a bracket was designed to hold it. The bracket was not tested but is believed to work as long as the sensors are placed correctly in relation to geographical north. The controller code was further developed but it was not tested extensively in combination with all the other components. Due to the code being developed by multiple people and documentation being vague, the code should be rewritten either partly or fully in addition to further testing.